Justin Bieber irks Philippines by mocking their boxer

The Canadian pop star has angered the country by posting a series of photos mocking the 34-year-old Pacquiao. The eight time champion lost to Mexican Juan Manuel Marquez in a fight in Las Vegas earlier this month.

Justin Bieber. Pic/Santa Banta

Bieber posted several photos including one that featured 'Smooth Criminal' era Michael Jackson standing over the fallen boxer, with the words "Manny Are You Okay?" above him; the other had Simba, from the Disney film 'The Lion King', nudging him like he had his dead father, the Hollywood Reporter said.

The photos have outraged politicians in Pacquiao's home country, who issued a statement condemning the posts. "Mr Bieber should have known that the Hon.

Pacquiao has reached his stature as such as a result of sheer hard work, determination and firm belief in God, and despite such stature best exemplifies humility and grace even in defeat," it said. They are also petitioning for a formal apology, with the threat that Bieber could be banned in the country.